Visakhapatnam, Feb 16 (NationPress) Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, officially launched the Indian Navy's MILAN Village on Sunday. This initiative embodies the spirit of friendship and cultural connection as part of the upcoming international naval exercise MILAN 2026, as confirmed by officials.

During the inauguration at the Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Bhalla expressed, “MILAN Village embodies the camaraderie and cultural ties that enhance professional naval cooperation.”

With Visakhapatnam set to host the International Fleet Review, MILAN, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in quick succession, this convergence signifies a pivotal moment in India’s maritime outreach and collaborative engagement with allied navies.

The launch of the MILAN Village also signifies the start of a wider array of engagements and activities organized by the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, according to the statement.

Exercise MILAN (Multilateral Naval Exercise) 2026, taking place in Visakhapatnam from February 15 to February 25, serves as a cornerstone of India's historic maritime collaboration alongside the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the IONS Conclave of Chiefs.

As one of the largest multilateral naval exercises in the Indo-Pacific, MILAN 2026 is poised to unite navies worldwide to enhance interoperability, maritime domain awareness, and shared response capabilities, as indicated in the statement.

The exercise's Harbour and Sea Phases will concentrate on complex naval operations, including anti-submarine warfare, air defense, search and rescue, and cooperative security missions, reinforcing a mutual commitment to free, open, inclusive, and rules-based seas.

MILAN 2026 stands as a significant operational embodiment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), reaffirming India's role as a preferred security partner and a responsible stakeholder in the global maritime domain.

The MILAN Village has been designed to serve as an experience zone that connects delegates and naval personnel from over 70 nations in an atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie.

This venue acts as a hub for social and cultural exchanges, allowing interactions that transcend professional boundaries.

A key highlight of the MILAN Village is its focus on cultural exchange, providing an immersive insight into India's rich heritage and traditions, as noted in the statement.

The village will feature live performances by vocal artists, traditional folk dances, and cultural ensembles that showcase India's vibrant artistic legacy.

Additionally, the village will host various stalls featuring naval memorabilia, handicrafts, and handloom products, highlighting craftsmanship from across the nation. Visitors can also indulge in delectable Indian cuisine, showcasing a diverse array of regional flavors and tastes, as stated.